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How to Get a New York State Security Guard License

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To be a security guard in New York State, you must be properly licensed. Unarmed security guards have slightly different requirements than those who are armed. Whether you desire to be armed or unarmed, you must be at least 18 years of age with no criminal convictions on your record. You must also be a United States citizen or resident alien.

Enroll in the eight hour “Pre-Assignment” training course that is required for New York state security guards. If you want to be licensed as an armed security guard, you must also complete the 47-hour firearms course. A certificate of completion is awarded for each course you successfully finish.

To register for a training course, contact a security guard training school that is approved by the New York State Department of Justice (see Resources).

Schedule an appointment with "L1 Enrollment Services" to have your fingerprints electronically submitted. You can schedule an appointment from the L1 Enrollment Services website (see Resources) or by calling 877-472-6915. Use ORI Number “SecGuard” when making your appointment. As of November 2010, the fee for fingerprints is $105.75.

Contact the Division of Licensing Services to request an application for Security Guard Registration. This application is not available online. To contact the department call 518-474-4429.

Download and print the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) consent form from the New York State Department of State website (see Resources). Complete the information as requested on the form, and sign it.

Submit your application, application fee and signed DMV consent form to the address listed below. As of November 2011, the application fee is $36. You must also submit your course certificate and a receipt that shows payment for fingerprints.

NYS Department of State Division of Licensing Services PO Box 22001 Albany, NY 12201-2001

Wait to receive your security guard license in the mail. The Department of Licensing does not indicate how long it will take to receive your license. Call the department at 518-474-4429 to check the status of your application, if desired.

Tip

If you are an active police officer, sheriff, court officer or corrections officer, you are exempt from taking the training courses.

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Writer

Faizah Imani, an educator, minister and published author, has worked with clients such as Harrison House Author, Thomas Weeks III, Candle Of Prayer Company and "Truth & Church Magazine." Her dossier includes JaZaMM WebDesigns, assistant high-school band director, district manager for the Clarion Ledger and event coordinator for the Vicksburg Convention Center.